Australian cities named as destinations as Emirates Airlines restarts operations

Melbourne and Sydney two of nine destinations for middle-east giant

Emirates Airline has announced that it will commence services between its Dubai hub and eight major international destinations, including both Sydney and Melbourne in Australia.

Australia aside, Emirates also said that it would reopen the routes to London Heathrow Frankfurt, Paris, Milan, Madrid, Chicago and Toronto. Connections for passengers travelling to and from these destinations would also be available.

In making their announcement the airline stressed that the resumed service would involve several changes from the old flight format to ensure that social distancing protocols and other health and safety concerns were addressed.

All possible precautions being taken

Writing on the official airline website the Chief Operating Officer Adel Al Redha said, “We are pleased to resume scheduled passenger services to these destinations, providing more options for customers to travel from the UAE to these cities, and also between the UK and Australia.

“We are working closely with the authorities to plan the resumption of operations to additional destinations. We have implemented additional measures at the airport in coordination with the relevant authorities in respect to social distancing and sanitization.

For those concerned by the seeming haste with which Emirates has followed its major middle-eastern rival Etihad, in re-opening flights, the airline stressed that they were working with local authorities and international guidelines to ensure the safety of their passengers.

“At Dubai International airport, customers and employees will have their temperatures checked via thermal scanners. Protective barriers have been installed at check-in counters to provide additional safety during interaction. Gloves and masks are mandatory for all customers and employees at the airport. In addition, Emirates’ cabin crew, boarding agents and ground staff who interact directly with travellers will don personal protective equipment (PPE) including a protective disposable gown and safety visor,” an official airline statement said.

Social Distancing remains important

“Social distancing protocols will also be implemented. This includes physical indicators being placed on the ground and at waiting areas in the airport to ensure travellers maintain a safe distance.”

Current destinations for return flights from 21st May till 30th June include Chicago, Frankfurt, London Heathrow, Madrid, Melbourne, Milan, Paris, Sydney and Toronto.

Stringent entry restrictions remain in place upon arrival in Dubai which includes: a mandatory DHA test on arrival; a mandatory 14 day quarantine and a follow up test before release.

Safety and wellbeing of customers and crew remain Emirates’ top priorities.

All Emirates aircraft will go through enhanced cleaning and disinfection processes in Dubai, after each journey.

COVID-19 flight and travel restrictions remain in place across many countries around the world. We are closely monitoring the situation as it evolves, and we hope to resume services as soon as conditions allow. This includes receiving government approvals, the easing of travel restrictions, and commercial demand. We will announce any service resumption when we are in a position to do so.